Hiring The Right Integrations Company- by Todd Brantingham

We're the "new kid" on the block, when it comes to critical construction Consultants and Project Managers, but finding the right integrations company is an important part of building or renovating a home or commercial building.

Remember, we're the guys who design, construct and program the systems you'll use every single day...who program your universal remote so your television, DVD, CD, Tivo and Satellite are SIMPLE for ANYONE to use, who can make your favorite room fill with music at the touch of a button, who make you feel safe in your home with a security system that meets your individual needs, and who make sure you never come home to a dark house again.

The hiring process is similar to finding the right architect and builder. Investigate projects you've seen or heard about, ask for references and call them! You'll find satisfied customers eager to share the simplicity their integrator added to their lives, and the care that the company put into the installation, programming and follow-up.

Experience Matters
The most important factor when you hire an integrations company is experience. You want someone you can trust, who will follow the project through to the very end, will meet the budget, and remain available as future questions or needs arise.

Simplicity Is The Key
The mere word "integrations" sounds technical, and technology is intimidating to many of us. However, I urge you to remember the fact that the goal of an integrations company is to manage the technology so they are truly providing simplicity! You won't hear any satisfied integration customers saying "I love the system, but I don't really know how to use it," or "I bought all of this stuff and it never works."

If you talk with a company that gives you "choices" for control systems you will use, beware! A true custom integrations company will design the systems to meet your needs, and not force a system design on you. That's when you end up with a system that requires multiple button touches to make things work, and when you end up frustrated and unhappy.

Questions To Ask
As you talk with clients, architects and builders about the integrations company you are considering, ask these questions:
- Did the integrator with well with other trades? (ex: electrician, cabinetmaker)
- Did the integrator stay on schedule?
- Were their field crews prompt and courteous?
- Did the installer prevent problems with good communication?
- Did they complete the job on time and on budget?
- Did they meet their promises?
- Are they still available for changes and upgrades?